Reusable Tote Made from Plastic Bags

Happy Earth Day! I have a special project today to share that I recently made using plastic shopping bags.  Despite using reusable ones, somehow I accumulate them anyway.  I gathered them all together and followed this youtube video, which was surprisingly simple!  I don't sew and hate following patterns so that just goes to show you anyone can do this!

Reusable Tote Made Using Plastic Bags (front)

My poor abused sewing machine! I ran into some trouble with the handles, which were very difficult to sew on at the end. I may shorten them, since they are a bit too long.  In addition to using plastic shopping bags, I added some dry cleaning bags, which have a great advantage because they are much longer.

Reusable Tote Made Using Plastic Bags (back)

Things to do different the next time I make this bag:

1. Don't make the plastic "fabric" as thick.  Four or five bags are enough to fuse together.  

2. Don't try to add paper in between the bags.  It doesn't stick.

3. Apply the duct tape to the top BEFORE sewing the bag together.  

4. Sew the handles on before sewing the bag together.  

5. Consider adding only one handle.

And now, a video about plastic, and its effect on our environment.  Please, please watch!



Next time you go to the grocery store, I want you to think about this image and remember to take your reusable totes with you!

Does anyone else have upcycled projects that they create?  I would love to hear about them in the comments.

Till next time,

Kathy

Check out these sites for more info about how to stop using so much plastic.

Homemade laundry detergent

Plastics: I Pledge to Reduce My Use

Ryot 

Tote Bag Tutorial